Away from home against an MK Dons side in need of a response after a grim run of results, Bristol Rovers would have expected a tricky challenge in Buckinghamshire on Tuesday. Instead, Joey Barton's side took the challenge in their stride, never looking in any danger before securing a 1-0 win at Stadium MK.
Antony Evans was to be the match-winner, scoring from the penalty spot with 14 minutes to play after Ryan Loft had been dragged to the ground by Bradley Johnson. Evans celebrated in front of a strong travelling contingent in the corner of an otherwise cavernous stadium, sharing in the delight of back-to-back wins that have done plenty to change the complexion of the season.
With the squad closing in on full fitness, their fortunes have been transformed in the past fortnight with seven points from three games to climb up to 15th in League One. Weeks had been spent sliding down the standings with points proving elusive amid a defensive injury crisis, but now the ranks are reinforced and momentum is back on Rovers' side.
